What’s the Deal With Pickleball?

Pickleball is having a moment right now. A big one. So, if it seems like everyone and their mother is playing pickleball these days – you’re not wrong. In our quest to uncover the details around a new trend, we had to get more information about the pickleball craze. And get in on the action. 

Here’s a quick glimpse of what we’ve learned: 

• Pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in the U.S.
• The fastest-growing segment of pickleball players are under 24.
• They’re not called pickleball players but “picklers.”
• You don’t “lose” at pickleball – you get “pickled.”
• Due to the wiffle ball style holes, pickleballs fly ⅓ the speed of a tennis ball.

This sport is not just about smacking a ball with a paddle. It’s a fitness fiesta and a social extravaganza rolled into one! Anyone can play, everyone can benefit, and it’s just plain fun. It’s a super affordable sport to just pick up, and the rules are pretty easy. For those of you pickleball-curios folks out there, here are a few more nuggets of information to add to your pickleball playbook. 

Break a Sweat, Picklers

Pickleball is a sneaky little cardio workout disguised as a game. Those quick sprints to the net, lunges for the ball, and rapid-fire volleys? They’re all keeping that heart rate up. It’s like a dance party, but with paddles.

You’ll be surprised at how many muscle groups get in on the action during a pickleball match. Legs for those lunges, arms for powerful shots, and core for stability – it’s a full-body workout without the dread of the treadmill.

Soon enough, you’ll notice your athletic prowess growing as you get into the flow. Ever seen a cat on a mission? Pickleball players develop cat-like agility with lightning-quick reflexes. You’ll be zigzagging across the court, reaching for shots you didn’t even think were possible.

The Social Side of the Court

One of the magic ingredients of pickleball is its social vibe. It’s a sport where you’re practically forced to chat and laugh with your opponents. High-fives, fist bumps, and friendly banter are all part of the game. And, pickleball doesn’t discriminate. It’s a sport that brings generations together on the same court, creating connections that might not happen elsewhere.

After a spirited match, the fun doesn’t stop. Many pickleball courts have clubhouses or gathering spots where players mingle, share tips, and maybe even plan the next match. (Sounds like the perfect place to share a WYNK post-game).

Pickleball caters to all social appetites. Want to play one-on-one with a friend? You got it. Prefer a doubles game with your squad? No problem. The choice is yours.

Pickleball Lingo

Before we dive into the rules, let’s get acquainted with some pickleball-specific lingo.

1. Dinking:

• The gentle art of hitting the ball just over the net, usually with a slight arc.

2. Kitchen (Non-Volley Zone):

• The area near the net where you can’t hit a volley (a ball that’s struck before it bounces).

3. Erne:

• A flashy move where you jump outside the court and hit the ball before it bounces.

4. Golden Paddle:

• A term for a player who is skilled with both their forehand and backhand shots.

5. Third Shot Drop:

• A strategic move involving a soft, precise shot to set up your team’s position.

Let’s Play: Pickleball Rules

Now that you’re familiar with some of the jargon, let’s break down the basic rules of the game.

1. The Court:

• A pickleball court is similar in size to a badminton court, measuring 20 feet wide and 44 feet long. It’s divided by a net that’s set at 36 inches high at the sidelines and 34 inches at the center.

2. Serving:

• The serve must be made underhand and from behind the baseline. The server aims to hit the ball diagonally across the net and into the opponent’s service box.

3. Volleying:

• Volleying is hitting the ball in the air without letting it bounce. However, you can’t volley if you’re standing inside the non-volley zone.

4. The Non-Volley Zone (Kitchen):

• Players can’t hit the ball in the air while standing in the kitchen, unless the ball has bounced.

5. Scoring:

• The game is usually played to 11 points, but you must win by at least 2 points. If the score reaches 10-10, play continues until one team wins by 2 points.

6. Faults:

• A fault occurs if the server steps on or over the baseline during the serve, or if the ball is hit out of bounds.

7. Double Bounce Rule:

• Each team must play their first shot off the bounce. This means the receiving team must let the serve bounce, and then the serving team must let the return bounce.

8. Rotation:

• Players rotate their positions after scoring a point. The player on the right side serves first.

The Pickleball Picnic

When was the last time you went to a sports event and brought snacks for everyone? In pickleball, it’s practically tradition! Players often bring treats to share, turning the court into a mini picnic. It’s a great way to refuel and catch up between games. And a great time to sip on a WYNK! The THC and CBD are perfect companions for the court, and passing out extras will definitely make you a few new friends on the court.

So, next time someone invites you to a game of pickleball, don’t just think about the paddle and ball. Consider it an invitation to a fitness and social adventure. Grab that paddle, hit the court, and earn that pickler status.

Get in the Game and Win a WYNK Pickleball Set

WYNK is making it easy to get in on the pickleball craze. Head over to our Instagram giveaway post and enter to win. It’s simple – tag a friend in the comments and follow @DrinkWynk. FOUR winners will receive:

• Limited edition WYNK & Recess Pickleball set with a paddle, court bag, WYNK branded wristbands, and 3 balls
• Polarbox Cooler
• WYNK Variety Pack (18 cans of delicious infused seltzer!)

Every friend you tag counts as an entry. Ten tags per person! Good luck, picklers!

Enter Here!